Generous Margaret honoured

A special commemoration to one of Shepparton's tireless advocates was unveiled on Thursday, paying tribute to Margaret Billingham's generous nature.

The plaque remembers units previously on the Tarcoola site, which were named to honour Mrs Billingham's compassion, hard work and dedication to creating the best outcomes for the region's underprivileged residents.

Daughter Ruby Telford spoke on behalf of Mrs Billingham's five daughters, saying it was an honour and "a lovely day" that Shepparton Villages had chosen to honour their mother.

"It's very nice that the (Shepparton Villages) board saw fit to continue our mother's legacy... It meant a lot, she did a lot and she'd been helping people for a long time," she said.

The plaque, surrounded by a bed of flowers, reads "This site was occupied by the Margaret Billingham Villas (1976-2013). Named in recognition of Margaret's 20 years of work with the homeless and broader Shepparton community."

It stands at the corner of the site of the original 30 units, which were designed to allow elderly residents to retire with dignity in appropriate housing.

Mrs Billingham moved to Shepparton in 1953 with her husband George, who also made significant contributions to the community.

Shepparton Villages' board president Stephen Merrylees said it was wonderful to be able to recognise Mrs Billingham's work in the community as part of the organisation's development.

Chief executive Kerri Rivett said Mrs Billingham had played an instrumental role in the Shepparton community with decades of service to organisations including the Shepparton Ladies Benevolent Society, the Royal Institute for the Blind Auxiliary and the Agricultural Society of Ladies.

"Today is about honouring that commitment. The plaque is about making sure she's remembered for the 30 flats that were built on this site," she said.

By Jenna Bishopas published in the Weekend News, Saturday, February 28 2015

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